Dave Dravecky: Dave and Jan Dravecky were first thrust into the public spotlight in the late 1980’s when Dave’s career took off as a major league baseball pitcher, a "southpaw" for the San Francisco Giants. Shortly after realizing his lifelong dream, Dave was diagnosed with a soft tissue cancer in the deltoid muscle of his pitching arm. The next years were a whirlwind of surgery, radiation, pain and depression, all in the glaring light of the media. Eventually, Dave’s arm was amputated to stop the spread of the cancer and save his life. Through it all, Dave and Jan’s faith in God and the love He gave them through others provided the anchor they needed in the midst of their storm. Dave and Jan founded the Outreach of Hope in 1991 in response to the thousands of letters and requests they received from hurting people encouraged by the Dravecky’s faith. The overwhelming needs expressed in these heartfelt letters formed the basis of the ministry offered by the Outreach of Hope today.

[posted 14 July. 2002]